By Lauren Wilson for Music Dealers
After iTunes’ acquisition and subsequent shutdown of online music service Lala, music geeks have been wondering if a new, cloud-based version of iTunes was on the horizon. Apple hasn’t yet announced plans or a timeline regarding a move in that direction but there’s still plenty of speculation to mull over.
A cloud-based music service like the now-defunct Lala allows users to access their music online anywhere and everywhere much like online storage/drop box systems people now use to store documents. Billboard.biz cited a recent Forbes Q&A with Evan Schwartz, CEO of another cloud-based service, Thumbplay Music. Thumbplay provides subscription-only content such as downloadable music, videos, and games for people’s mobile phones. When asked his thoughts on a cloud version of iTunes, Schwartz said, “When they launch they'll put a lot of marketing and a lot of money behind it and it'll educate all consumers about the value of cloud-based music, which is good for everybody who is in this business.” He acknowledged iTunes had much greater resources for hardware and marketing but countered that “…they’re not the only game in town. I think it’s a good thing for everybody if Apple launches.”
Apple’s huge one billion dollar North Carolina data center fueled rumors that the center will be used to develop the company’s cloud computing. Macrumor.com reports the center should be up and running by the end of this year.
In another article, Macrumor.com warns that a cloud-based iTunes might still be far off if major music labels don’t sign off on a deal. Apple could try to jumpstart the online streaming service without figuring out new negotiations but that would also be a quick way to get slammed with lawsuits. Like Schwartz said, a cloud-based business model could benefit everybody but if you’re eagerly awaiting Apple’s version, don’t hold your breath.
For the full Q&A with Schwartz click here.
